Los Angeles Angels star Mike Trout made his long-awaited return to the field in a 4–1 win over the Cleveland Guardians after missing 26 games with a bone bruise in his left knee. While the return was a positive step, one top MLB insider believes Trout may be evolving into something new at the plate.
Chris Rose Believes Mike Trout May Turn Into a Classic Power Hitter
Veteran MLB insider Chris Rose shared his thoughts on Trout’s return during an episode of Baseball Today with former big leaguer Trevor Plouffe. Rose said this stretch is a “critical time” in Trout’s career and suggested the three-time MVP may be transitioning into more of a pure power hitter.
When Plouffe mentioned that Trout once looked like a lock to reach 3,000 career hits, Rose didn’t hold back, replying, ” I’m worried he won’t even get to 2,500 hits.” Plouffe added that as Trout ages, he may need to adjust his swing mechanics to stay productive.
The 26-30 Angels are currently four games out of an American League Wild Card playoff spot, and they need Trout to stay healthy and get hot if they want to stay in the race. Rose’s theory that Trout may simply be a power hitter at this stage of his career is notable because Trout hit fifth in the lineup in his return off the injured list for the first time. It was also the first time since his rookie year that he hit lower than third in the lineup.
Angels manager Ron Washington said the move is only temporary, and Trout will soon return to the top of the order. But no matter where he hits, adjustments at the plate may be on the horizon.
Mike Trout’s first hit coming off the injured list is a line drive to left field #Repthehalo @SportingTrib
— Thomas Murray (@Thomas_L_Murray) May 31, 2025
Trout is hitting just .180 with a .262 on-base percentage—far below his career standards. His 30% strikeout rate and 25% chase rate are both concerning, showing he’s swinging and missing more often and chasing pitches outside the zone.
Still, there are bright spots. Trout’s expected slugging, barrel, hard-hit, and sweet spot rates are above average. Physically, he doesn’t seem to be slowing down—his sprint speed ranks in the 84th percentile, even if stolen bases are likely off the table for injury prevention.
While young players like Zach Neto and Logan O’Hoppe stepped up during Trout’s absence, the Angels still go as far as their superstar can carry them. Even a version of Trout slightly past his prime remains central to any postseason push in Anaheim.